A new running race has been added to the north Essex athletics calendar – with plans for a jelly baby station in the village event.

The Boxted 10k will take place on May 20, 2018, and entries are open for the inaugural race.

Hoping to capitalise on the success of nearby events, such as the well-established Langham and Dedham 10ks, the latest race in the calendar has been set up by the Boxted Runners club.

As well as the main 10k event – which includes off-road sections – there will also be a 2k fun run event for youngsters.

All proceeds from the event, sponsored by East Links estate agents, will go to Boxted St Peter’s Primary School which is the start and finish for the races and will also host other activities on the day.

Pupils are helping to design the medals for the 2k run.

Vanessa Dolling, who founded the Boxted Runners, said: “I don’t think we thought it would ever grow into what it has done.

“Doing a 10k has always been in the back of my mind because of local events and knowing how much they raise – I thought ‘why can’t Boxted do one and raise money for the school just like others do?’.

“It was just an idea that has come through, but it’s a no brainer.

There are 500 places for the inaugural 10k run, which is approximately 40% off-road – a feature the organisers hope will help attract runners.

Boxted is no stranger to running events, with the Langham 10k and the Colchester Half Marathon routes passing through it.

Vanessa said: “The off-road section is part of its USP, and it will also be quite motivational.

“If you have not got spectators and things going on around the route to keep you going it can be exhausting, so we are thinking about having things along the way such as getting the church involved, and the Boxted Methodist Silver Band. We’re hoping for jelly baby stations, and getting some drums on the hills to really motivate people.”

Carina Burgoyne, one of the event organisers, added: “There’s not much going on in Boxted, though that is changing. We are trying to bring the community together, getting local businesses and organisations involved, as well as fundraise for the school and put Boxted on the map.”

Entry is £14 or £12 for affiliated runners, with a minimum age of 15. Entry is £4 for the 2k run which is aimed at those aged 5-15-years-old.

To find out more about Boxted Runners or to join visit the group’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/villagerunning

To sign up to the Boxted 10k or 2k event, or to volunteer, go to boxted10k.co.uk or email promotionsboxted10k@gmail.com